I looked for Christmas everywhere,
Through snow-filled skies and winter's air.
I hunted in the likely places ---
The festive shops, the children's faces.

I searched for Christmas day and night,
In sprigs of holly, candlelight;
In gifts gay-wrapped and friendly greeting,
Yet found it not, and time was fleeting.

And then --- with a sudden start ---
I thought to search within my heart.

And there --- not lost, but warm and waking ---
Was Christmas, mine just for the taking!

- "The Search" by Emily Templeton